3 weeks later, Equifax makes a peace offering

For some time, the credit reporting industry has been quietly attempting to change the behavior of consumers who wish to protect their own data: They want you to “lock” your files, not “freeze” them. The company says its credit lock will be free for life and be ready by Jan. 31.

Why not make freezes free for life, too? Why not make them easier to use instead of inventing an entire separate mechanism? Why not create a three-bureau freeze or lock, so that people don’t have to worry about thieves taking data stolen from Equifax and using it through competitors, Experian or TransUnion?